Advancing quality in low human development index scoring countries; The need for standardized and shared quality measurement and reporting

Abstract

Over the past decade, significant research and documentation have emphasized the global importance of assessing and enhancing quality health services in low human development index scoring (LHDIS) countries [1–3]. This endeavor requires continuous monitoring, evaluation, and accessible measurement of systematic quality of care (QoC), requiring collaborative efforts within and between nations. The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) member countries have successfully demonstrated the feasibility of such initiatives to collect and report quality data [4]. However, the OECD Health Care Quality Initiative, a pivotal tool shaping health-care policies, exclusively benefits high-performing and data-rich economies among its current 38 member nations, posing challenges for other less-resourced economies [4]. Health care is widely recognized as a fundamental human right. It is therefore imperative to intensify efforts to improve the basic information necessary for effectively delivering health services as a public good in all settings. Collective action is needed to support LHDIS countries to develop similar health-care data and information infrastructure capabilities to OECD member countries, leveraging existing health system measurement initiatives...